Schools Face Uncertain Finances

Financial concerns loom large for the Burlingame School District as officials prepare for Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposed 2012-2013 budget and what it means to the schools.

School officials estimate about $1.2 million has been cut from the Burlingame School District budget annually since the 2008-2009 year due to state funding cuts. Overall state education funding has reduced 16 percent in that time.

At their meeting Tuesday night, members of the Board of Trustees will discuss the proposed budget and how to work through the rest of the year and planning for the future with uncertain funds.

The uncertainty is especially challenging given the planned implementation of a transitional kindergarten program established under Senate Bill 1381.

The bill adjusts the kindergarten start date, mandating children turn 5 years old by Nov. 1 for the 2012-2013 school year, then Oct. 1 for the 2013-2014 school year and finally Sept. 1 for the 2014-2015 year. As part of that adjustment, a transitional kindergarten program was introduced for students who would otherwise begin kindergarten in the 2012-2013 school year, but now must wait under the bill.

Without state funding, the program will no longer be required, but the district will be forced to decide whether to cut funding from other programs for transitional kindergarten or to leave a whole group of students on their own for the year.

“I think it would be advisable planning to move forward with transitional kindergarten,” said Assistant Superintendent Jud Kempson earlier this month. “I think it’s good for kids. We just have to determine whether we can afford it.”

At their meeting board, members will also discuss the schedule for full day kindergarten in the upcoming 2012-2013 school year and receive plans for student achievement from the six district schools.

For a full agenda, click here.

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